Winter is Here! Prevent Burst Water Pipes and Protect from Seasonal Damage

STAMFORD, Conn., Jan. 16, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The majority of homeowners are aware of the responsibility required to maintain a functioning and comfortable home, but it can be extra difficult to keep things around the home running smoothly during the colder months.

The change in temperature not only impacts our personal routines, but can also impact the home. Water utilities report that a 10 degree change in the air or water temperature can dramatically increase stress on water mains1. These same stresses can impact the lines in and around your home. Regions that are susceptible to freezing temperatures aren't the only ones that should take precautions to prevent freezing pipes to reduce the risk of property damages; homeowners in the Southeast as well as some areas of Arizona and California may also be affected, as pipes in these regions may not be prepared to handle freezing temperatures – thus increasing the risk for burst pipes or water line breaks.

Water temperature below 40 degrees Fahrenheit can cause pipes to become brittle, while air temperatures at or below freezing causes the ground above a pipe to freeze. Because drops in water temperature lag behind changes in air temperature, water main breaks may occur one or two days after a cold spell arrives.1

"It is important for homeowners to understand that there are many factors that go into preparing a home for colder temperatures, beyond just insulating the home. Homeowners often overlook the importance of ensuring that their pipes aren't susceptible to bursting or breaking," said Tom Rusin CEO of HomeServe USA. "If the worst should happen, having an emergency repair plan to protect you in the event of a frozen pipe bursting can be an essential safety net during a cold snap."

The damage caused by a burst water pipe can get quite expensive. Homeowners should take precautions to make sure their pipes are properly insulated and have been properly drained. In addition, knowing where the master water shut-off valve is located can be crucial if a homeowner suffers from a burst pipe, and having the proper protection in case of a break also helps ensure peace of mind.

HomeServe USA is currently offering its Water Service Line Protection Plan to residents in Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Michigan, Missouri, Oklahoma and South Carolina, via an optional direct mail offer this week. Homeowners living throughout the country should visit www.homeserveusa.com to learn more about protection plans.

About HomeServe

HomeServe is an independent provider of Emergency Repair Service Plans. The company was established in the US in 2003 and has grown to protect over 1.2 million homeowners across the US and Canada, against the expense and inconvenience of water, sewer, electrical, HVAC and other home emergencies. HomeServe dedicates itself to being a customer-focused company providing best in class emergency repair plans through utility partners and directly to customers. For more information about HomeServe, please go to www.homeserveusa.com, follow us on www.twitter.com/homeserveusa and like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/homeserveusa.